A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Microphone for Acoustic Guitars

Recording an acoustic guitar can be a beautiful and rewarding experience, capturing the nuances of its tone and resonance. However, selecting the right microphone for the job can be a daunting task, given the wide range of options available. I’ve compiled a list of my own in the article 7 Proven Winners: Discovering the Best Mic for Acoustic Guitar. In this comprehensive guide, I will walk you through the essential factors to consider when choosing the right microphone for acoustic guitars. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or a beginner, this guide will help you make an informed decision to achieve the best possible sound.

Understanding Microphone Types

Before delving into the selection process, let’s briefly explore the two main types of microphones commonly used for recording acoustic guitars:

Condenser Microphones

Condenser mics are known for their sensitivity and ability to capture detailed sounds. They are great for reproducing the natural, warm tones of an acoustic guitar. These microphones require phantom power from an audio interface or preamp to function properly. There are two subtypes of condenser microphones: large-diaphragm and small-diaphragm.

• Large-diaphragm condenser microphones: These are commonly used for studio recordings due to their ability to capture a broader frequency range and a more significant portion of the sound field. They tend to have a warmer and more colored sound, ideal for adding character to acoustic guitar recordings.
• Small-diaphragm condenser microphones: These mics are renowned for their accuracy and detail. They have a faster transient response, making them suitable for capturing the intricate nuances of acoustic guitar playing. Small-diaphragm condensers are often used in stereo recording techniques to create a more spacious and immersive sound.

Dynamic Microphones

Dynamic microphones are less sensitive but more robust and versatile. They handle high sound pressure levels well, making them suitable for live performances and close-mic applications. Dynamic mics are particularly favored for their durability and ability to withstand rough handling on stage.

Factors to Consider

Purpose and Application

Determine how you plan to use the microphone. Are you primarily recording in a studio or playing live shows? Different situations call for different microphone types.

• Studio Recording: If you mainly intend to record your acoustic guitar in a controlled studio environment, a condenser microphone is usually the preferred choice. The sensitivity and detail of a condenser mic can capture the full tonal richness and subtleties of the instrument. Additionally, the ability to use phantom power ensures the microphone’s optimal performance.
• Live Performance: Onstage, acoustic guitarists often deal with higher sound levels and feedback issues. In such scenarios, a dynamic microphone can be more suitable due to its robustness and ability to handle high SPL (Sound Pressure Level). Dynamic mics also offer excellent off-axis rejection, which helps reduce the chances of picking up unwanted noise from other instruments or the audience.

Budget

Set a budget range before exploring your options. High-quality microphones can range from affordable to expensive, so knowing your budget will help narrow down choices. While it’s tempting to go for the most expensive microphone, it’s essential to strike a balance between your budget and the features you need.

Polar Pattern

Consider the polar pattern of the microphone, which describes its sensitivity to sound from various directions. The most common polar patterns used for recording acoustic guitars are cardioid and omnidirectional.

• Cardioid: The cardioid pattern is heart-shaped and captures sound from the front while rejecting sound from the sides and rear. This pattern is ideal for isolating the acoustic guitar and minimizing background noise.
• Omnidirectional: An omnidirectional microphone picks up sound equally from all directions. This pattern is rarely used for recording acoustic guitars, as it tends to capture more ambient noise and reflections.
• Bidirectional (Figure-8) and Hypercardioid: These are less common but can be used creatively in certain recording scenarios.

Frequency Response

Look for a microphone for acoustic guitars with a flat and wide frequency response to accurately capture the full range of your acoustic guitar’s tones. A flat frequency response ensures that the microphone doesn’t overly color or emphasize certain frequencies, providing a natural representation of the instrument’s sound.

• Low Frequencies: A well-balanced microphone will pick up the low frequencies of an acoustic guitar’s body, adding warmth and depth to the recorded sound.
• Midrange Frequencies: The midrange frequencies are crucial for defining the guitar’s tone and character. A microphone with a smooth midrange response will capture the harmonic richness and presence of the instrument.
• High Frequencies: The high frequencies contribute to the brightness and sparkle of the acoustic guitar. A microphone with good high-frequency response will capture the instrument’s clarity and articulation.

Sensitivity

For studio recording, a more sensitive microphone might be preferable to capture subtle details. Condenser microphones are generally more sensitive than dynamic microphones. However, when recording in a live setting, too much sensitivity can lead to feedback issues, making dynamic microphones a better choice.

Off-Axis Rejection

If you plan to record in a noisy environment or on a live stage, consider a microphone with good off-axis rejection to minimize unwanted sounds. Off-axis rejection refers to the microphone’s ability to reject sound coming from directions other than the desired sound source. This is especially important for live performances where stage monitors and other instruments might cause sound spillage.

Microphone Placement

Experiment with different microphone placements to find the sweet spot that captures the best sound of your guitar. The position of the microphone relative to the guitar significantly affects the tone and balance of the recorded sound.

• Near the 12th Fret: Placing the microphone close to the 12th fret captures a balanced mix of the guitar’s warm body tones and clear string articulation. This position is ideal for fingerstyle playing.
• Near the Soundhole: Positioning the microphone near the soundhole emphasizes the instrument’s low-end and warmth. This placement is suitable for strumming and creating a more resonant sound.
• X/Y Stereo: Using two small-diaphragm condenser microphones in an X/Y configuration above the guitar captures a wide stereo image, adding spaciousness to the recording.
• Mid-Side (M/S) Stereo: In this technique, one microphone captures the center signal (mono) while another microphone picks up the sides (stereo). The stereo width can be adjusted during post-production, allowing for greater control over the spatial qualities of the recording.
• Blending Microphones: Combining different microphone types and placements can lead to unique and personalized acoustic guitar recordings. Experimenting with microphone blending can provide a balance of warmth, detail, and spaciousness.

Top Microphones for Acoustic Guitars

Here are some highly recommended microphones known for their excellence in capturing acoustic guitar sound:

1. Shure SM81 (Dynamic): The Shure SM81 is a versatile condenser microphone renowned for its transparent sound reproduction. It offers a flat frequency response, capturing the guitar’s natural tones accurately.
2. Rode NT1 (Condenser): With its wide frequency response and neutral sound signature, the NT1 microphone is suitable for a wide range of applications, from vocals to instruments, both in the studio and live settings.
3. Beyerdynamic M 160 (Ribbon): The M 160 offers a hypercardioid polar pattern, which focuses on the guitar and rejects off-axis sounds effectively. Its smooth frequency response and rich low-end make it ideal for capturing the body and warmth of acoustic guitars.
4. AKG C451B (Condenser): The AKG C451B is a classic small-diaphragm condenser microphone that has been a favorite among recording engineers for decades. Its precise and detailed sound reproduction, coupled with a wide frequency range, makes it a versatile choice for acoustic guitar recording.
5. Neumann KM184 (Condenser): A compact small-diaphragm condenser microphone with a clear and transparent sound. The KM184 is favored by many professionals for its excellent transient response and versatility.
6. Shure SM57 (Condenser): A classic dynamic microphone with a rugged build, often used for both vocals and instrument recording. The SM57 is renowned for its versatility and durability, making it a staple on many live stages.

Conclusion

Selecting the right microphone for acoustic guitars is a vital step in achieving the sound you desire. Consider your recording or performance needs, budget, and features that align with your preferences. Always experiment with different microphone placements to discover the perfect sound that showcases the true beauty of your acoustic guitar. By following this comprehensive guide and being patient in your search, you can find the ideal microphone to elevate your musical experience to new heights.

Check out my other related posts:

• 7 Proven Winners: Discovering the Best Mic for Acoustic Guitar
• Mastering the Art of How to Mic an Acoustic Guitar: A Comprehensive Guide
• Unveiling the Secrets of Condenser Microphones: Ideal Tools for Capturing Acoustic Guitar
• Unveiling the Best Classical Guitars Under $1000: An Unbeatable Blend of Quality and Affordability
• 10 Of The Best Beginner Acoustic Guitars in 2023

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Chadwick Becks

I have two degrees in guitar performance and was privileged to study under Aaron Shearer, Tom Kikta, David Skantar, Ken Karsh, Tim Bedner, and currently Christopher Berg. Outside my editorial work on this blog, I teach full-time across many genres including classical, jazz, blues, rock, funk, and metal.